Tourists stranded in Saint Martin may return Sunday as weather improves
There had been sporadic drizzle since Saturday morning that may continue on Sunday
More than 200 tourists who are stranded in Saint Martin's Island due to hostile weather may return to Cox's Bazar coast on Sunday if the movement of trawlers resumes.
After torrential rains for three straight days, the impact of the depression along the coastal areas of the country faded away on Saturday.
"The Met office has lifted its warning signal for the maritime port as well, raising the possibility of tourists' return on Sunday," Saint Martin Union Parishad Chairman Noor Mohammad said.
Md Abdur Rahman, meteorologist at Cox's Bazar Met office, said the warning signal at the Cox's Bazar maritime port has been brought down as the depression created over the Bay of Bengal has faded away.
He, however, said there had been sporadic drizzle since Saturday morning that may continue on Sunday. Besides, the sea has remained tumultuous, even though the warning signal has been lifted, he added.
UP Chairman Noor Mohammad said the stranded tourists are in safe condition. Saint Martin police outpost In-charge Tarek Mahmud also echoed the UP chairman.
Ibrahim Raihan, one of the stranded tourists, said they did not panic amid the hostile weather, thanks to the care of the local administration and hospitality of the locals.
Teknaf Upazila Nirbahi Officer Md Saiful Islam said the movement of vessels on the Saint Martin's water route has remained suspended for the last few days due to the hostile weather.
Saint Martin police and local representatives have been directed to look after the tourists there until they return to Cox's Bazar safely, he added.